power plant
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power plant
A large technical facility in which electricity is generated from various energy sources such as coal, gas, water, wind, or nuclear power.
Das neue Gaskraftwerk versorgt die gesamte Region mit Strom.
The new gas-fired power plant supplies the entire region with electricity.
The word is made up of 'Kraft' (power/strength) and 'Werk' (factory, facility). So it literally describes a facility that produces power or energy.
In der Nähe der Stadt wird ein neues Kraftwerk gebaut.
A new power plant is being built near the city.
To specify the energy source, 'Kraftwerk' (power plant) is often combined with other nouns. Common examples are 'Atomkraftwerk' (nuclear power plant), 'Kohlekraftwerk' (coal-fired power plant), 'Wasserkraftwerk' (hydroelectric power plant), and 'Windkraftwerk' (wind power plant).
Ein Wasserkraftwerk nutzt die Energie von fließendem Wasser.
A hydroelectric power plant uses the energy of flowing water.
In the figurative meaning, 'Kraftwerk' (powerhouse) describes a person with an extremely high amount of energy and drive. The phrase 'ein wahres Kraftwerk' (a real powerhouse) is often used.
Unsere Teamleiterin ist ein wahres Kraftwerk, sie scheint nie müde zu werden.
Our team leader is a real powerhouse; she never seems to get tired.
machine
'Maschine' and 'Kraftwerk' can both figuratively refer to a person who achieves a great deal. 'Maschine' emphasizes more that someone works quickly, with endurance, and almost automatically; sometimes it can also sound a bit emotionless. 'Kraftwerk' emphasizes more the energy and strength of a person or thing. Both words are figurative and rather informal. If you mean pure performance and efficiency, 'Maschine' fits well. If you want to highlight strong energy, 'Kraftwerk' is more natural.
Die Fahrerin ist ein echtes Kraftwerk und gibt auch am Ende des Rennens nicht auf.
The driver is a real powerhouse and does not give up even at the end of the race.
Nach drei Stunden Training wirkt Paul immer noch wie eine Maschine.
After three hours of training, Paul still seems like a machine.